The Philippines is seeking new air service agreements with Japan, India, Thailand, and possibly the United States to expand international connectivity, according to the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB).

“We hope it will happen this year,” CAB Executive Director Carmello Arcilla said in an interview with reporters at the sidelines of the launch of AirAsia Group’s headquarters in Pasay City on Wednesday.

In a separate interview, Capt. Chester Voo, Deputy Group CEO for Airline Operations, said the company is also eyeing potential routes between Manila and India, as part of efforts to tap into a rapidly growing tourism market.

“There’s 1.4 billion people in India. The Indian travelers are driving global tourism. India is a great market. What Air Asia can do is we will market Philippine tourism to benefit the people of the Philippines and the economy,” Voo said. 

Early this week, the Department of Foreign Affairs said Indian tourists may enter the Philippines without a visa for 14 days. 

Travelers must present a passport valid for six months beyond their stay, a confirmed hotel booking, proof of financial capacity, and a return or onward ticket.

Indian nationals holding valid American, Japanese, Australian, Canadian, Schengen, Singapore, or UK visas or residence permits may stay visa-free for 30 days if visiting for tourism.

The privilege is available at all Philippine ports of entry, provided the traveler has no derogatory record with the Bureau of Immigration.

Those entering for transit, long-term stays, or non-tourism purposes must secure a visa through a Philippine embassy or consulate. Eligible nationals may also apply for an e-Visa via evisa.gov.ph, which is also non-extendible and non-convertible.